The River Retreat Koh Mak
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The River Retreat Koh Mak is a tourist attraction situated on Koh Mak, a small and relatively undeveloped island in Trat Province, not far from the better-known Koh Chang. The property sits within one of Thailand's quieter island destinations, where the pace is deliberately slow and the landscape remains largely unspoiled — making it an appealing option for travellers looking to step away from busier resort areas. Guests can expect a relaxed, nature-focused atmosphere that reflects the character of Koh Mak itself. The retreat holds a strong rating from visitors, suggesting a consistently positive experience in terms of comfort, hospitality, or setting. Open every day of the week from 7:00 in the morning through to midnight, it accommodates both early risers looking to make the most of the island and those enjoying a leisurely evening. Practically speaking, Koh Mak is best reached via ferry services that typically connect through Laem Ngop pier in Trat, with journey times varying by season and boat type. The island is smaller and less commercialised than neighbouring Koh Chang, so travellers should come prepared with enough cash and any specialist supplies they may need, as amenities on the island are more limited. Visiting between November and April offers the most reliable weather, with calmer seas and lower humidity. Checking directly with the retreat via their website before arrival is advisable to confirm availability and any ferry transfer arrangements they may offer.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The River Retreat Koh Mak, round out your day in Koh Chang with contrasting stops nearby.
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Koh Chang
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Koh Kood
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The River Retreat Koh Mak: Frequently Asked Questions
Is The River Retreat Koh Mak worth visiting?
The River Retreat Koh Mak holds a 4.6★ rating from 41 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated hotels & resorts in Koh Chang.
What are the opening hours of The River Retreat Koh Mak?
The River Retreat Koh Mak is typically open 07:00-00:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit The River Retreat Koh Mak?
The best months to visit Koh Chang are November – March, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough seas, many closures).
Where is The River Retreat Koh Mak located?
The River Retreat Koh Mak is at 116 Tambon Ko Mak, Amphoe Ko Kut, Chang Wat Trat 23000, Thailand, in Koh Chang. Getting around Koh Chang: Shared songthaews along the west-coast road; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully).
Location Info
116 Tambon Ko Mak, Amphoe Ko Kut, Chang Wat Trat 23000, Thailand+66 82 680 5840www.riverretreat-kohmak.com/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – March
Avoid: June – September (rough seas, many closures)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
No airport on the island. From Bangkok, take a bus or minivan to Trat (5–6 hrs) or fly Bangkok Airways to Trat (TDX, ~1 hr), then the car ferry from Ao Thammachat pier (~30–45 min). Combined bus-and-ferry tickets are sold from Ekkamai.
Getting around
- •Shared songthaews along the west-coast road
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully)
- •Taxis and hotel transfers from the ferry pier
- •Longtail and speedboat trips from Bang Bao pier for island hopping
Tips for Visiting Hotels & Resorts
Book Shoulder Season
May–June and September–October offer dramatic discounts (30–50% off peak rates) with fewer crowds. Weather is mixed but rarely a washout — afternoon showers clear quickly.
Compare OTAs and Direct Rates
Always check the hotel's own website after finding a rate on Agoda or Booking.com. Many Thai properties offer a best-rate guarantee or throw in perks like free breakfast when you book direct.
Pool Villa Doesn't Mean Expensive
Private pool villas in Krabi, Hua Hin, and Chiang Mai start around 2,500–4,000 THB/night — a fraction of Bali or Maldives prices. Search specifically for 'pool villa' to surface hidden gems.
Nearby Places

Baan Talay Hostel
A highly regarded hostel on Koh Mak island, offering a relaxed base for exploring this quiet corner of Thailand.

Baan Koh Mak
A well-regarded resort on the quiet shores of Ko Mak island, offering a relaxed escape near Koh Chang.

Makathanee Resort Koh Mak
Relaxed beachfront resort on peaceful Koh Mak Island with a pool, restaurant, bar, and easy beach access.

Miss You Beach Resort - Koh Mak
A beachside resort on peaceful Koh Mak island, offering a relaxed escape within the Koh Chang archipelago.
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Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – March
Avoid: June – September (rough seas, many closures)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 32°C(75°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
No airport on the island. From Bangkok, take a bus or minivan to Trat (5–6 hrs) or fly Bangkok Airways to Trat (TDX, ~1 hr), then the car ferry from Ao Thammachat pier (~30–45 min). Combined bus-and-ferry tickets are sold from Ekkamai.
Getting around
- •Shared songthaews along the west-coast road
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day — the hills between beaches are steep, ride carefully)
- •Taxis and hotel transfers from the ferry pier
- •Longtail and speedboat trips from Bang Bao pier for island hopping
